Caterpillar approves use of B-20 for some engines

Caterpillar today approved the use of B-20 biodiesel – 20 percent dilution of biodiesel with standard diesel – across its range of compact and mid-range engines including the C0.5 through C2.2 Tier 4 Interim (11-66 hp), the C4.4, C4.4 ACERT and C6.6 ACERT (72-275 hp) Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant engines. Caterpillar believes the growth of biodiesel as a fuel source and the move to higher percentage blends makes approval of this fuel source a strategic market advantage for OEMs and end users. 

Addition of these engines to the B-20-approved product line follows successful testing of higher percentage blended fuels in a number of installations. Results of those tests indicate trouble-free operation. Biodiesel used in B-20 blends must meet the most current version of ASTM D6751 or EN14214. The final B-20 blend should meet the minimum requirements of the upcoming ASTM specification for B-5 to B-20 blends. 

“This announcement further confirms Cat’s commitment to its industrial customers by bringing the broadest range of biodiesel-compatible engines to market,” says Cat industrial engine marketing manager Mike Reinhart. “These engines join the previously B-30-approved C7 ACERT  through C32 ACERT and our 3400 and 3500 series. Cat industrial engines provide customers who want the flexibility to utilize a wide variety of fuels the confidence to use them in numerous industrial applications,” Reinhart adds. “Biodiesel that meets industry quality standards can be good for the environment and for our customers.”